Xbox One without music features at launch

Microsoft is preparing for one of their biggest launches ever, with the exciting launch of the Xbox One console at the end of this week. Unlike the PS4, the Xbox One will be available on November 22 in multiple regions including Europe.

This week, we have some information to give you for those that are specifically looking to use their Xbox One console as a primary means of listening to music. Unfortunately though, it is not very good news as there are going to be some restrictions in place as to what you’ll be able to do.

Microsoft has confirmed that users won’t be able to play any music from external hard drives at launch. If you were hoping to be able to plug in your flash drive and just add your collection straight to the Xbox One – you won’t be able to do it.

On top on this, you should also be reminded that Microsoft’s Xbox Music service won’t be free on the Xbox One as some originally thought either. You’ll be able to play tracks for a duration of time cost free, but after that you’ll need to get an Xbox Music pass to continue.

Unlike the PS4 however, the Xbox One will play music CDs at launch. There’s no word on whether music via USB drives will be supported at a later stage, but hopefully Microsoft will be listening to feedback from fans over this.

Don’t forget that Sony has already promised to add a future patch to re-enable MP3 and CD support on the PS4 at a later date.

Does the music restrictions on the Xbox One bother you or not? Let us know if you are willing to buy a pass to use the Xbox Music service.